Two-space Extension - Unobvious Answers

First, the obvious answer  

The great virtue of the two-space extension is that it is difficult to cut through. When White plays , is a simple answer to prevent White separating Black's stones by playing there himself.

It is also the correct answer, in most circumstances. But there are occasions when one wants to play at a, b or c for reasons of local shape. It is even possible for Black to jump out at d in response; but that is when Black effectively claims that is an overplay.

One should bear in mind that as shown in this diagram is in most cases honte: the other plays aren't for general use.

The bulge point  

White's follow-up here is , at what would be a bulge point for Black.

Resisting  

That would be one reason for Black to play this way. Now White at a would be odd, since if White wanted that result he would have started there.

White can force  

After that White has a chance to play some kikashi, with and , and then perhaps a or b. Black has made a thinner shape and White's pay-off is this chance to complicate matters.

The diagonal play  

The unobvious play here is an interesting example of shape, and seems only to be played in the presence of the stone.

Now if the position becomes tense. Black can try . White a, Black b came next in a recent Korean game: Black has cut in good shape.

Comparison  

This is better for White, when the white stones on the right were previously weak.

Inviting a fight  

Finally, here is suitable when Black wishes to involve White in a fight. Up to is a predictable result; White must now find a way out, or play more lightly here.

-- Charles Matthews

Bill: I have added , which looks like honte to me.

Charles Agreed, but then White at a escapes. When Black is strong locally - the cue for - Black may connect otherwise on the left to force White to crawl out with b.

Go Seigen's recommendation (I)  

takes the high ground, giving Black good balance.

Go Seigen's recommendation (II)  

connects underneath. could also be at a. This is also playable.